American Airlines launched new Budapest to New York Flight

Monday 18, April 2011

American Airlines, a founding member of the oneworld alliance, inaugurated its new nonstop service between Budapest and New York JFK on Wednesday, 06 April.

The new year-round service links two hubs of American and Malév Hungarian Airlines, opening up great connection possibilities for travellers on both sides of the Atlantic. As part of the celebrations, American’s Boeing 767-300 aircraft was welcomed with a traditional water canon salute as it landed on Hungarian soil for the first time.

Customers departing on the first flight were welcomed at the gate with a special cake, canapés and a glass of sparkling wine so that they could join in and toast the new flight in style. A ribbon cutting officially launched proceedings and passengers were given a special commemorative gift before boarding.

Speaking at Budapest Airport’s Terminal 2B, Kurt Stache, Vice President International, American Airlines, said: ““We are delighted to launch this new flight from Budapest to New York, which is truly a oneworld alliance route. New York has been like a home to American Airlines since we began flying there in 1939, so we know a thing or two about this amazing city and all it has to offer. This is also one reason why we have invested so heavily in our own terminal at New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport. Designed with the traveller in mind, it aims to speed customers on their journeys, hopefully making it an enjoyable experience whether people are remaining in New York or connecting to destinations across the Americas and Caribbean.”

Martin Gauss, CEO Malév Hungarian Airlines, which is a oneworld codeshare partner on the route, described the service as a new air bridge connecting Budapest with one of the most important cities in the world. He said: “The establishment of this route is of considerable significance for Malév Hungarian Airlines and the result of sustained and joint efforts between partners. Together we are confident that we will not only serve the travelling public but also strengthen and expand existing relations between the two countries in the long term.”

Mr Kam Jandu, Director of Aviation, Budapest Airport, emphasised Budapest Airport’s commitment to the future, adding: “Budapest Airport has a vision to build the best airport within the Central-Eastern European region and we have a capital investment programme to spend over 260 million Euros, of which around 82% is complete. Many will have seen the showpiece of this investment – SkyCourt - which opened just last month and is simply stunning. Over the coming months, we will be refurbishing the transfer area and also the satellite zones in 2A and 2B. There is no better way for us to celebrate these investments than with a great new service operated by American Airlines and I look forward to it becoming a great success.”

Find the best deals available today

The grey menu on the right is your best friend. Always check before you travel.

More and more travellers think that researching and planning a European city break is half the fun and they're not interested in pre-arranged trips or escorted tours. Self-guided tours offer a lot of advantages but require some guidance and good resources.